How much of a problem is it for the plumber in the UK to cheat his client, as well, at every turn? Everyone complains about the government and what they take, but how many complain about the client and excuse taking more from them? And before you answer this, I swear you need to have some personal experience with trying to get things fixed here, particularly from plumbers
Also, I'd make a comment about the level of taxes here - I agree that Argentina has a high tax burden, but it surprises me to hear that it's higher than the UK, or at least significantly so _ I admit to ignorance. But even so, does the level of taxation make a difference as to whether it's better or not to try to evade paying them? Personally, I don't think so, but I do think a level of corruption, and what you get for the money you put in, is a valid reason. But I'm a renegade, as well, who believes the power of the government comes from the people and not the State. Some will say that's an excuse, and I won't argue the point.
In may places it is acceptable to try to hide at least some income from the government (how many waiters and waitresses in the US declare tips if they have a choice?) and while in its strictest sense of the word is indeed corruption, I think we're talking about more direct impact when talking about private people being corrupt.
There is a saying I've heard here before (paraphrased) - if someone here has a chance to screw another over and doesn't take it, he's an idiot. Fortunately that is not an example of most of my experience here, but I've seen and experienced enough of it that is has to be more than the average compared to where I come from.
There was a pool last year in one of the papers asking Argentinos what they thought of corruption. I can't remember the details, but basically the answer came back that a near majority of the people were OK with corruption as long as it benefited them...
